Government has ordered all official vehicle drivers to switch off engines during waiting periods as part of stricter fuel-saving measures.
In a circular issued on April 2, Permanent Secretary for Finance Shiri Gounder said idle parking would no longer be tolerated.
“Idle parking is strictly prohibited, and Government drivers will be disciplined and surcharged for idle parking and fuel wastage,” Mr Gounder said.
He stressed that drivers must turn off engines if waiting for more than one minute.
“Drivers are required to switch off the vehicles for any waiting time beyond 1 minute,” he said.
The directive forms part of broader efforts to reduce fuel consumption across Government amid rising global fuel costs.
Mr Gounder said compliance would be closely monitored, with further action likely if fuel use is not reduced.
“The Ministry of Finance will closely monitor vehicle use and fuel consumption and issue further specific directives if… not reduced,” he said.
He added that additional measures were being considered, including reducing the number of vehicles in operation.
“Options are being considered to ground certain number of vehicles across Government,” Mr Gounder said.
The measures signal a tightening of controls on Government vehicle use as authorities seek to manage costs and improve efficiency.
